Reading advocates host Free Comic Book Day

Published 12:15 pm, Tuesday, May 1, 2012

As fans gear up to see Marvel's "The Avengers" hit the big screens Friday, local reading advocates are hoping to bring new people into the world of comic books.

Both branches of the Midland County Public Library as well as local comic book stores will be participating in Free Comic Book Day on Saturday, when customers of participating stores are welcome to pick up free copies of select comic books and graphic novels. The national event takes place the first Saturday of each May and is sponsored by Diamond Comic Distributors and trade organization ComicsPRO.

Participating store and library locations receive a sampling of more than 40 comics and graphic novel titles from various publishers to provide for their customers.

This will be the library's first year to participate in the event, and titles will be given on a first come, first serve basis, according to Centennial Branch Librarian Lauren Battenfield.

"It'll be a good chance to get people to see what the library's own comic book and graphic novel collection looks like," she said. Though the Centennial Library branch location at 3211 W. Wadley Ave. has a small collection aimed at younger ages, the downtown location at 301 W. Missouri Ave. has an extensive array for multiple age ranges, from classic stories adapted into graphic novels to classic superhero comics.

In addition to offering a limited amount of free select comic books per customer, Hastings Entertainment will offer a buy two, get the third free deal on all bagged and boarded comics Saturday. Graphic novels will be on sale for $5.99 or less.

Small business owner Keely Newton will offer free comic books to customers from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday at Thunderstruck Comics & Collectibles, 2405 Fannin Ave. Though the majority of his business consists of pre-ordering, other items also will be on sale in the store. People might be flocking to theaters to see movies, but comic books still provide a unique experience to their readers, Newton said.

"What it boils down to is they're a bit of a escape just as much as TV and movies are," he said.